India’s assistant coach, Ryan ten Doeschate, recently weighed in on Mohammed Siraj’s form ahead of the second Test against New Zealand in Pune. Despite the fast bowler’s lackluster performance in the first Test, ten Doeschate remains confident in Siraj’s abilities, describing his current struggles as a “wicked drought” that he believes Siraj will soon overcome.
Siraj’s performance in the first Test, held in Bengaluru, has raised concerns. Although the pitch was conducive to fast bowling, Siraj managed to claim just two wickets across both innings. His figures of 2-84 and 0-16 were far from his usual standards, and while he bowled well on the final day, he failed to take additional wickets when India needed them most as they defended a low total.
During a pre-match press conference, ten Doeschate was asked about Siraj’s dip in form and whether he would feature in the upcoming Test. The former Dutch international emphasized that Siraj’s bowling, especially on Day 5 of the first Test, was of high quality, despite the lack of wickets. He pointed out that Siraj’s deliveries were on target, but the wicket simply did not cooperate by offering enough movement for him to capitalize on his strengths.
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“(Mohammed) Siraj bowled beautifully in the second innings. Our last morning was of really high quality. And maybe it wasn’t a nicking wicket, which is his big strength, particularly to left-handers when he moves the ball across,” Ryan ten Doeschate explained.
While acknowledging Mohammed Siraj’s current struggles, Ryan ten Doeschate reassured reporters that there was no need to worry about his form. He praised Siraj’s speed and accuracy, stating that with some minor tactical adjustments—such as coming around the wicket and targeting the stumps more directly—he is confident Siraj will soon be back to his wicket-taking best.
Mohammed Siraj’s recent home form has been less than impressive. The 30-year-old pacer has played seven home Tests in 2024, taking just 12 wickets at an average of 42.83. However, India has been able to weather Siraj’s lack of success thanks to Jasprit Bumrah’s stellar performances this year. Siraj’s struggles, however, are of particular concern as India prepares for their five-match Test series against Australia, where his form will be crucial.
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Ten Doeschate dismissed any major concerns about Siraj, pointing to the fast bowler’s rhythm and fitness as positive signs. He emphasized that the team is focusing on small tactical adjustments that could help Siraj regain his wicket-taking touch. “But no, no concerns again. I’m sure if he’s given the chance here, we’ve got a few tactical things we wanna work on… But his speeds are good, his accuracy is good.”
Despite the vote of confidence from the coaching staff, there are rumblings that Siraj may be dropped for the second Test in Pune. Akash Deep, who has shown promising form recently, is waiting in the wings and could replace Siraj if the team decides to make changes.
